Indian Diaspora: A Living Cultural Bridge
Prime Minister Modi noted that Malaysia hosts the second-largest Indian-origin community in the world, underlining the many cultural, linguistic and emotional connections shared by the two societies. He said Indian traditions have been preserved with remarkable dedication by the diaspora over centuries.
Recalling his recent Mann Ki Baat address, the Prime Minister said he had shared with 1.4 billion Indians how more than 500 schools in Malaysia teach children in Indian languages. He said this commitment to cultural continuity was both inspiring and deeply moving.
Celebrating Tamil Heritage and Shared Civilisational Values
Highlighting the role of the Tamil diaspora, Prime Minister Modi said the Tamil community in Malaysia has contributed significantly to social, cultural and economic life. He described Tamil as “India’s gift to the world”, noting that Tamil literature is eternal and Tamil culture truly global.
The Prime Minister announced that following the establishment of the Thiruvalluvar Chair at the University of Malaya, India will now set up a Thiruvalluvar Centre in Malaysia. He said the initiative would further strengthen shared heritage and deepen cultural engagement between the two countries.
IMPACT Vision for India Malaysia Partnership
Prime Minister Modi said India–Malaysia relations are scaling new heights, particularly after the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He said the guiding principle of the relationship is IMPACT — India–Malaysia Partnership for Advancing Collective Transformation.
“India’s success is Malaysia’s success, and Asia’s success,” the Prime Minister said, emphasising that the partnership is aimed at delivering tangible benefits for citizens of both countries and contributing positively to the region.
Economic Cooperation and Digital Connectivity
The Prime Minister highlighted the strong presence of Indian companies in Malaysia, noting that over 100 Indian IT firms operate in the country, generating employment and innovation. He also referred to the Malaysia–India Digital Council as a platform opening new avenues for cooperation.
Announcing a major digital milestone, Shri Modi said India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) will soon be introduced in Malaysia, further easing financial transactions and strengthening digital connectivity.
India’s Global Growth Story
Referring to India’s economic transformation, the Prime Minister said the country has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing major economy and is steadily advancing towards becoming one of the top three global economies. He highlighted achievements in manufacturing, startups, digital public infrastructure and clean energy.
He said India is today seen as a trusted partner for growth, with trade agreements spanning the UK, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Oman, the EU and the United States, adding that trust has become India’s strongest global currency.
Diaspora as Partners in Viksit Bharat
Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s enduring commitment to its diaspora, highlighting expanded OCI eligibility for Malaysian citizens of Indian origin up to the sixth generation. He also announced upcoming Thiruvalluvar Scholarships and the opening of a new Indian Consulate in Malaysia.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister said the Indian diaspora remains a valued partner in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, adding that India lives in the hearts of its people wherever they reside.
